Sorry about the radio silence guys! For those that didn't see the drama unfold via Instagram or Snapchat (find me at thestyleboro), I've been in fracture hell ever since April.
So two bone-setting sessions, one surgery, and a full week of extreme pain later... I'M BACK!
I'm still in recovery mode and life has been difficult (and slow) without my dominant hand, but staying in all weekend gave me the itch to talk beauty finds. Let's get started, shall we? :)
HAIR
A few weeks back I received a StriVectinHAIR's Ultimate Restore kit which includes a shampoo, conditioner, deep repair mask and densifying foaming treatment. I was a little unsure how it would react with my curls since I don't have any issues with dryness or breaking (if anything it's the opposite) but gave it a go since it claims to restore and revitalize hair from root to tip.
AND, you GUYS, my hair feels so healthy and my curls look more defined and healthy after a month's use.
First and foremost, there are no parabens, sulfates, or phthalates. The entire line is made with their NIA-114 Technology which reinvigorates the skin's surface and loads of other amazing things. The shampoo is rather gentle and doesn't lather, which is the norm in the no-poo world. The conditioner and deep repair mask work hand-in-hand to restore damage caused by heat styling, coloring, and environmental stressors as well as restore hydration. The scent isn't overpowering at all -which I prefer. I have mixed feelings on the densifying foaming treatment, but the other three are a must-have. Sephora currently offers a sample kit at a great price, so pick that up and let me know what you think.
FACE
There are a few stand-out brands in this category, the first one, Farmaesthetics, was introduced to me by Pearlesque Box. I reviewed their last impressive box here and loved everything. I can only imagine being blown away by what's inside this box.
For the start of summer, Pearlesque teamed up with Farmaesthetics to create a box devoted to sustainable skincare. All of the gems inside the box are 100% natural with ingredients that are certified organic. The woman behind the brand has also been touted as an entrepreneur at the forefont of the natural beauty revolution. Amazing, right?
Let's dive into the contents - three out of four being full-size products :). The first up, is the Nourishing Lavender Milk which I've been using for my face, body, and wrecked right hand - it just smells and feels so good. When used on my face the light formula doesn't cause that too-dewy look on my forehead which is much appreciated. Tansynella Organic Bugscreen was tested out next, and although there are no signs of mosquitos (yet) the moisturizing oil was perfect for my knees and elbows. The scent was also way better than any other bug spray I've ever tried - so that was a win.
As we all know, I'm a mist-head so I was super excited to try The Cool Aloe Mist. Its cute travel size is perfect for tossing in your gym bag or toting along to the beach to soothe sun-kissed skin. After cleansing my face, I love misting this on before locking in hydration with the Lavender Milk. They're basically partners in crime. But, my entire favorite out of the box has to be the Herbal Hydration Complex - Remedy Reserve Mask. For some reason, my forehead has been super greasy and my skin (probably from stress) has been breaking out. No bueno. This mask sort of sops up excess oil (to prevent future breakouts) and hydrates my skin so it's dewy and plump in the right places. The 5-minute mask is a definite game-changer and one that has been immediately included into my routine bi-weekly. You must try the mask for reals!
What I really love about Pearlesque Subscription boxes is the value. This entire box is valued at $119 but if you get it through Pearlesque it's only $39.95. What's even better is that they threw in a bonus code AILEEN15 for an additional 15% off your first box. So, if you like what you read make sure you scoop up this box before June 3rd (last date to order).
All these beauty finds and no panel to speak on... Until AOL Lifestyle asked me to be one of their judges! They sent over contenders for their Summer Beauty Awards, and you guys, I found some real stars! You can see all the winners on their site here and check out my top moisturizing picks down below.
Face Moisturizer
When I was a wee blogger, I used to be obsessed with all things bliss. I loved their packaging, their brand voice, and how luxurious everything felt. To be completely honest, they did fall off my radar but after receiving their fabulous drench 'n' quench moisturizer all of the memories with this brand came rushing back. I found the cream to be incredibly hydrating, refreshing to touch after being out in the sun, and incredibly light. The moisturizer definitely felt more gel-like than cream-like, but I didn't mind that at all.
Sleeping Mask // Sleeping Pack
Saved the best for last! I absolutely love a good sleeping pack and have stocked my cabinets with some of the best out of Asia. Then... I had my mind blown by Lumene. The brand comes from Finland and their ingredient list boasts some of the Artic's natural resources. Their Bright Now Vitamin C Sleeping Cream is incredibly hydrating and works to brighten and vitalize fatigued skin. Within a week I noticed how smooth and nourished my skin look. Mind you - I started testing this product right at the start of my accident when I could barely sleep. Highly recommend adding this to your skincare regime.
Check out the rest of the beauty winners on AOL Lifestyle here.
P.s. Hope your Memorial Day Weekend was amazing!
